Ohio Gaming Commission
A “game of chance” is poker, craps, roulette, or other game where the participant pays money in hope of gain, the outcome of which is largely determined by chance.
Winning numbers and jackpots can only be verified through our gaming system, accessible at any Ohio Lottery office. Play Responsibly. For help, call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline 1-800-589-9966. Ohio’s race tracks are also permitted to conduct video lottery sales by use of video lottery terminals overseen by the Ohio Lottery Commission. Ohio permits businesses to promote their products and services by conducting bona fide sweepstakes promotions. A sweepstakes is not gambling because the participants do not pay for the chance to win a.
Generally, games of chance may only be conducted at festivals of charitable organizations that last for no longer than a period of four (4) consecutive days and are held not more than twice a year or for a period of five (5) consecutive days not more than once a year. Craps, roulette, and slot machines are not permitted at festivals. The game of chance must be conducted on the premises owned by the charitable organization or leased from a qualifying organization.
Organizations wishing to conduct a game of chance must also meet the following additional requirements pursuant to Policy 201:
Ohio Gaming Commission License
- the organization must have received a tax-exempt determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service stating that it is exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code;
- the organization must qualify as a “charitable organization” as defined in the Ohio Revised Code; and,
- with the exception of a volunteer rescue service, firefighter’s organization, or veteran’s or fraternal organization, the organization must have been in continuous existence for a period of not less than two years.
Ohio Casino Gaming Commission
No license is required for a qualified charitable organization to conduct games of chance at festivals.